Working memory is the ability to hold information in your mind while engaging in other tasks. An example would be telling and your child remembering to take the dog out after they finish eating breakfast. Working memory develops during infancy, with nonverbal abilities emerging prior to verbal ones. As language abilities improve, children are able to rely on both visual imagery and language to remember.

Signs Your Child Struggles with Working Memory

If your child has difficulty with any of the following areas (organized by grade level), they may have working memory deficits:

Preschool/Kindergarten

  • Completing simple errands (e.g., grabbing their coat from their room when requested)
  • Immediately remembering instructions
  • Following a routine with only a single reminder per step

First-Third Grade

  • Completing two-three step errands
  • Remembering instructions from several minutes ago
  • Following two steps of a routine with only a single prompt

Fourth-Fifth Grade

  • Remembering to complete chores without reminders
  • Taking books and assignments to and from school
  • Keeping track of a schedule that changes (e.g., different activities on certain days)

Sixth-Eighth Grade

  • Keeping track of assignments across different classes
  • Remembering nonroutine events (e.g., having to take the bus rather than being picked up)
  • Remembering multistep routines after practice

Strategies to Address Working Memory Challenges

The following strategies can be implemented to help your child if they struggle with working memory:

  • Ensure your child and you have eye contact before telling them something important
  • Minimize distractions while speaking to your child (e.g., turn the television off)
  • Have your child repeat the information back to you
  • Implement written reminders (e.g., lists, schedules, etc.) and prompt your child to check these items
  • Practice responses to events prior to the situation (e.g., what the child is supposed to tell their teacher when they get to school)
  • Help your child develop personalized memory strategies
  • Use texts or phone calls to remind your child of important information if they have a cell phone
  • Reward remembering important information (e.g., they bring their homework home every day that week)

By following these strategies, you can help your child overcome their working memory challenges and reach their potential.

Reference:

Dawson, P., & Guare, R. (2009). Smart but scattered. New York, NY: The Guilford Press.